Tooth decay team targets children

Currently, 58 per cent of children aged under five in Barnsley have problems with dental decay, compared to the national average of 40 per cent.

An “Oral Health Action Team” has now been set up to target families in Barnsley’s most deprived areas.

They hope to encourage families to visit the dentist and also promote awareness of fluoride varnish, which is a high concentration of fluoride that is applied to teeth by a dentist.

Jillian O’Brien, from the action team, said: “Our team is on hand to help improve oral health in this region and make people aware of the importance of keeping their teeth clean.

“It is vital that we work in partnership with local groups such as school and community health visitors to ensure they can reinforce the message to children and their families.

“As well as leading the steering group, we also offer specific training for other NHS staff who have direct links to our target audience.”